James Joyce Library student space survey results now available

THE results are in from the James Joyce Library Survey which took place last November. Silence and an environment of concentration are the most important roles the library plays for students.

The aim of the survey was to understand the function of the library for its users, and gain an idea of priorities for both major refurbishment and smaller incremental improvements.

In November, 2,000 printed question sheets, offering a short range of statements to rate, plus some free text comment opportunities, were distributed on desks around the library over a two-day period. The response rate for the survey was 51% (1,062) which was high considering no incentive was offered for completion.

The overall response from the survey is positive and shows that 87% of respondents believe that the Library is critical to their success in UCD. 95% of students feel that the Library contributes to a positive UCD experience. Four fifths of respondents believe the Library has a positive ambient environment, with 91% stating that they can concentrate on their work while in this space.

Three quarters of respondents agreed that seeing other students study in the Library motivated them to study. One student went as far as to say that the library is ‘a place where success begins’.

Although the overall response is positive, most respondents believe the library needs modernisation. One in ten students would also like to see the opening hours extended.

One area of contention raised in the free text comments is the need for additional power outlets on desks. There were also numerous comments provided about ‘poor and unhygienic toilets’ and the need for them to be extended and upgraded.

Most respondents (68%) chose individual study spaces over group study spaces or social and café facilities as the area most in need of development. 64% prioritised the provision of phone charging stations with a further 17% indicating that this was a ‘nice feature’. Over half (54%) would like to see an ‘upgraded and varied choice of seating and desking’ with an additional 24% of respondents noting that this would be a ‘nice feature’.

On the topic of food and drink, 46% believed there should be tea/coffee allowed in all spaces. 36% believed it should be allowed, but only in certain zones. Only 16% believed food should be allowed in all spaces, 40% favoured allowing food consumption in certain areas only.

Of the 1,062 respondents, 84% were undergraduate students whilst postgraduates represented 12% and UCD staff made up another 1%. All colleges throughout campus were represented too. The feedback came from Arts (29%), Business (9%), Engineering and Architecture (10%), Health and Agricultural Sciences (18.5%), Science (18.5%) and Social Science and Law (12%).